Knicks Roster Outlook Ahead of Training Camp

The New York Knicks are officially less than a week away from the start of training camp — a significant date many have circled on their calendars, and one that fans have been eagerly awaiting.

New York is heading into an unprecedented regular season unlike anything the franchise has endured in recent years. From making the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000 to the excitement surrounding the offseason additions of Guerschon Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson, there’s more than just news surrounding the Knicks — there’s momentum.

While some may gloss over training camp and preseason games, the Knicks are making themselves known as the team to sign with, bringing 21 players into camp, of which only 15 will make the final roster. Some are familiar names, while others will be donning a Knicks uniform for the first time. So, who exactly will take the floor when camp begins on September 24?

This core group carried New York through last season’s playoff run. Led by second-year captain Jalen Brunson, the “WingStop” duo of Bridges and Anunoby will make their highly anticipated return, alongside All-Star big man Karl-Anthony Towns.

It remains unknown who new head coach Mike Brown will name to his opening night lineup. Many on social media advocate for a double-big look featuring Towns and Mitchell Robinson, while others expect Josh Hart to remain in the starting five. Robinson’s pairing with Towns during the postseason showed promising results, which could give him the edge.

For now, these six are simply focused on getting game reps and building chemistry.

The Knicks’ bench has rarely looked this strong. Returning guard Miles McBride appears poised to take on the unofficial sixth-man role, now joined by offseason pickups Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele. Clarkson, after six seasons in Utah, has built a reputation as one of the NBA’s premier bench scorers. Yabusele, meanwhile, thrived in Philadelphia last year during the 76ers’ injury-riddled campaign, bringing toughness and strength to complement his undersized frame.

Second-year big Ariel Hukporti could also see his role expand. Last season, he made 25 appearances before injuries and inconsistent minutes cut things short, though his rim protection and dunking flashes stood out. Should Robinson move into the starting five and Hart shift to the bench, Hukporti may be in line for significant minutes.

These three second-year players — Dadiet, Kolek, and McCullar Jr. — enter camp fighting for bigger roles. Of the trio, only McCullar Jr. is currently on a two-way contract.

Kolek showed the most promise last season, filling in admirably as the backup point guard when Brunson missed time. His passing vision and occasional outside shooting made him the rookie most ready to seize a rotation spot.

McCullar Jr. and Dadiet face steeper climbs. McCullar Jr. spent most of last season recovering from knee surgery, making limited appearances with both the Knicks and the G League. Still, he flashed signs as a slasher and spot shooter. Dadiet, New York’s 2024 first-round pick, spent the year in Westchester, averaging 14.9 points and 5.4 rebounds. While his perimeter shot remains a work in progress, he’s shown strides defensively.

This group is full of intriguing names with something to prove.

Familiar faces Landry Shamet and Matt Ryan return on non-guaranteed deals, battling for a spot as New York’s designated sharpshooter. Ryan played 19 games for the Knicks last season, averaging just 1.5 points in 3.6 minutes, while Shamet appeared in 50 contests, offering flashes of defense and timely shooting.

Newcomer Garrison Matthews could challenge them both after averaging 7.5 points and shooting 39% from three in 47 games with Atlanta last season.

In the frontcourt, Trey Jemison III and Alex Len will look to carve out roles. Both spent brief stints with the Lakers during their center carousel last year. Len’s scoring and defense have dipped, but his rebounding remains reliable. Jemison, meanwhile, is gaining attention for his aggressive rebounding and physical presence at 6’11”, 260 pounds.

Tosan Evbuomwan is another player to watch. After a strong season with Brooklyn, where he averaged 9.5 points in 28 games, he now gets a shot to build on that progress in New York.

Finally, Malcolm Brogdon joins on a non-guaranteed deal. Limited to just 24 games last season, injuries have slowed the veteran guard. Still, his 12.7 points per game and versatility at 6’4” could give the Knicks valuable backcourt depth — if he stays healthy.

It’s safe to say the Knicks are shaping up to be a must-watch team, not just in the Eastern Conference but across the entire NBA.